Question

Which type of tort involves causing harm to someone's reputation through spoken words?

• A. Trespass
• B. Nuisance
• C. Slander
• D. Negligence

Hint:

Remember that defamation through slander or libel can have significant legal consequences. Understanding the difference between spoken and written defamation is important in law.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Slander refers to a type of defamation where harm is caused to a person’s reputation through spoken words. Unlike libel, which involves written statements, slander typically involves verbal communication.

Answer 2

The type of tort that involves causing harm to someone's reputation through spoken words is known as Slander. It falls under the broader category of Defamation, which refers to any false and harmful statement made about a person that damages their reputation in the eyes of others.

Types of Defamation:
Defamation is of two types:
1. Libel: Defamation in a permanent form, such as written, printed, or published content (including digital publications).
2. Slander: Defamation in a transient form, typically spoken words or gestures.

Characteristics of Slander:
- It must be a false statement.
- The statement must be spoken or expressed through temporary means (e.g., gestures).
- It must be communicated to a third party.
- It must result in damage to the person’s reputation.

Legal Consequences:
While both libel and slander are actionable under civil law, slander often requires the plaintiff to prove actual damage unless the statement falls under specific exceptions (such as imputing a crime or professional incompetence).

Example:
If a person falsely accuses another of theft during a public conversation, and this harms the latter’s social standing or professional life, it can be considered slander.

Conclusion:
When a person's reputation is harmed through false and defamatory spoken words, the tort committed is classified as Slander.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Slander.